Pak deploys army in Gilgit-Baltistan

Pakistan on Saturday deployed army in Gilgit and Baltistan to maintain “peace and security” ahead of Monday’s legislative assembly elections in the regions, despite India’s objections to the polls.

worldUpdated: Jun 06, 2015 23:55 IST

PTI

Pakistan on Saturday deployed army in Gilgit and Baltistan to maintain “peace and security” ahead of Monday’s legislative assembly elections in the regions, despite India’s objections to the polls.

“For maintenance of peace and security during upcoming election, army troops have been deployed in all districts of Gilgit-Baltistan,” military spokesman Major General Asim Bajwa said.Bajwa in a statement said that as per the requisition of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), troops have been sent to help the civil administration in the regions.

All major parties are contesting the elections on June 8.India has objected to the polls, calling it an attempt by Pakistan to “camouflage its forcible and illegal occupation” of the regions.

But Pakistan has rejected India’s stand and said India should avoid “interference” in its internal affairs. The upcoming elections are also fraught with concerns relating to pre-poll rigging.